Speaking from abroad while on official duties, Hon. Njai criticized the refusal by authorities to grant a permit for what he described as a small, peaceful assembly.
“A group of fewer than thirty individuals submitted a lawful request to gather peacefully,” Njai noted. “Though the assembly was later declared unlawful, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) could have simply approved it with reasonable conditions to maintain order. That would have been a fair, transparent, and democratic approach.”
“We must not criminalize peaceful dissent,” he said. “These young people are not enemies of the state, they are citizens demanding transparency and justice. Let them go.”
On the conduct of the police during the protests, Njai was clear and firmed.
“While we honour the dedication of our security services, I must unequivocally condemn the excessive and unjustifiable violence displayed by some officers,” he stated. “Such aggression, marked by a disregard for proportionality, is a betrayal of public trust and professionalism.”
Njai added that the actions of a few officers highlight serious gaps in the country’s ongoing security sector reforms.
“This troubling pattern of abuse must be addressed. We need robust accountability mechanisms, transparent investigations, and retraining programs that reflect the values of restraint, dignity, and public service,” he insisted.
He also called on young people to remain peaceful and legally informed in their advocacy efforts.
“I urge all youths to stay calm and focused. Avoid violence. Document any violations of your rights and seek legal counsel,” he advised. “Our credibility as a movement depends on our commitment to nonviolence.”
Turning to the political environment, Njai urged leaders not to exploit the protests for partisan purposes.
“This is not the time for political point-scoring. Genuine demands for transparency should not be weaponized for personal or party gain,” he warned. “Let us focus on justice, accountability, and the greater public good.”
Njai also urged his fellow lawmakers to prioritize conscience over politics.
“Accountability must transcend party lines. This is about the soul of our democracy. Any reforms to laws governing peaceful assembly must protect fundamental freedoms not erode them,” he said.
Njai finally called for unity and reflection. “Let us reflect on our shared mission to build a just and transparent society. Only through collective resolve can we move forward with integrity.”
